Scar Revision & Removal Surgery in Philadelphia

Scar revision is a type of surgery designed to improve the appearance of a scar. It is a reasonable treatment option when non-surgical treatments such as steroid injections, laser resurfacing, and dermabrasion have been exhausted and have resulted in limited benefit. A patient may be a candidate for scar revision if their scar is raised (hypertrophic scar), extends beyond its original boundaries (keloid), or is elongated and runs opposite to the natural lines and creases of the face. The goal of scar revision surgery is to replace the current scar with a more concealed, a more aesthetically pleasing scar. Dr. Ho specializes in scar revision for scars that occur in the head and neck region and performs each surgery according to the unique anatomy and surgical goals of the individual patient.

As a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Ho is well-recognized as a face specialist and attracts patients from all over Philadelphia and Wayne as well as greater Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. Dr. Ho dedicates ample time and effort with every patient to review possible surgical and non-surgical treatment options and determine which ones are best suited to meet the goals and expectations of the patient. Dr. Ho’s approach to scar revision is conservative; she will advocate pursuing non-surgical procedures first before considering surgery, which is more invasive and ultimately replaces the scar with another scar. Her attention to detail combined with her artistic intuition ensures natural, aesthetically pleasing results for every scar revision patient. Depending on the size and location of the scar, Dr. Ho may perform scar revision surgery under local or general anesthesia and either in the office or at a surgery center. Every scar is different and requires a unique surgical plan. The scar may be completely excised or may be re-oriented to align more with the natural lines of the face. As a former reconstructive surgery patient, Dr. Ho understands that the appearance of the scars may matter greatly to the patient. She performs meticulous closure with each scar revision case to ensure that the new scars heal well and are minimal.

Each scar revision procedure is different and catered to the individual patient. Therefore, the types of incisions utilized as well as extent of swelling and bruising that occur after surgery will vary by patient. Every reconstructive patient will follow-up with Dr. Ho one week after surgery for suture removal. Each patient will then follow-up again at weeks to months out at regular intervals for re-evaluation. The down time for surgical scar revision is usually minimal; most patients can return to normal daily activities apart from heavy lifting, straining, and strenuous activity the day after surgery. Post-operative pain is usually mild and managed well with prescribed pain medication. The scars are typically well-healed by two weeks out from surgery but take up to six months or longer to mature and achieve their final appearance. Dr. Ho seeks regular follow-up with her patients to ensure that every patient heals well and is satisfied with their surgical outcome.